Perth businesses move first on atmospheric water systems as new markets open

Perth engineering firms have begun rolling out atmospheric water generators on commercial sites this month, with the first units already supplying irrigation at two large projects in the northern suburbs.

The technology pulls moisture from air to produce water for non-potable uses, and its arrival coincides with tighter water allocation rules that took effect for new developments on 1 July. Builders and landscape contractors who secure early contracts stand to lock in supply without drawing from scheme water.

Installations already operating at named sites

One unit has been running since late June at the Alkimos Beach estate on Marmion Avenue, feeding native plantings across 12 hectares managed by a local landscaping contractor. Another system is active at the new stage of the Ellenbrook town centre on The Broadway, where the developer reports it has cut trucked water deliveries by half. Both projects sit inside the City of Wanneroo, where planners have required water-sensitive design for approvals since 2024.

The Water Corporation’s trial program at Bold Park in City Beach has also adopted two generators to maintain the botanic garden beds without increasing bore licences. Staff there say the units have produced an average 180 litres per day during the current dry spell.

Numbers that are driving uptake

A May 2026 industry survey of 47 Perth firms found the average installed cost per unit at $14,800, with payback estimated at 26 months when offset against water cartage fees of $2.40 per kilolitre. Three companies in Osborne Park have formed a joint purchasing group to bring the per-unit price down to $11,200 for orders placed before October.

Consultants at the University of Western Australia’s Centre for Water Research have modelled that 150 units across the metro area could free up 80 megalitres of scheme water annually, a figure that matches the annual allocation for one new primary school oval.

Businesses that want to move ahead should contact the City of Wanneroo or the City of Stirling planning desks for the current rebate schedule before lodging development applications. Those already holding approvals can still add the systems as minor variations without new fees until the end of the financial year.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.